If you want to get out in the jungle, without going on a river cruise, the best option is to stay at an eco-lodge. There are several luxury options and quite a few mid-range, but this is not a budget activity.

The only one I’ve stayed at is Treehouse Lodge. I loved it because renting a treehouse also gets you a private guide and assistant. My guide, Eddy, was available to take me walking in the forest or out on a boat from 6am to 9pm. Read my Treehouse blog.

Like looking for jungle tour agencies, there are several things you should ask about. It might take time to find the right lodge for you, but it’s time well spent to ensure that you have a good experience once you get there.

First is transportation: How will you get there and is transportation included in the cost?

Second is about food: What kind of food is available and can they accommodate dietary restrictions? Lodges are usually quiet isolated and it’s next to impossible for them to go buy special food for you if it’s not arranged ahead of time.

Third is health and safety: What do they do in case of emergency? Is their staff trained for health emergencies? How do they evacuate a guest if necessary?

Fourth is about whose land you’ll be visiting: Is the lodge on private property or on land owned by an Indigenous community? Will you be visiting Indigenous land during excursions and activities? How are Indigenous communities compensated for the use of their land? What are the opportunities for lodge guests to meet, interact with and learn from Indigenous communities?